Participation in the State of Michigan Schools of Choice is voluntary. PPS elects to participate in both the In-County and Out-of-County programs. Portage does not participate in Schools of Choice within the district, however, it does allow for special requests to be made through our In-District Transfer Program when a family hardship is present. 

Families who apply to attend through one of these programs must wait to enroll until after they receive a decision letter. All decisions will be final so families are strongly encouraged to be as thorough as possible during the application process.  Lack of information may result in denial.  No appeals will be accepted.  Families will be permitted to apply again the following school year if desired.

Available Programs

Schools of Choice Programs: In-County and Out-of-County

• The District accepts both in-county and out-of-county Schools of Choice applications. This program is for students who reside in a District other than PPS within the Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency OR in a district serviced by a bordering ISD/RESA.

• These transfers are for families with reasons for why they prefer to attend Portage Public Schools.

• Must apply during the application window noted above to qualify as a Schools of Choice applicant.

• Processed by Instructional Services Office.

Other Student Transfer Programs

Release Program

• This program is for Portage residents requesting for their student(s) to attend another district instead of Portage Public Schools.  Please note that if you are changing schools because you are moving to a new district, this form is not required. You would instead complete our withdrawal form.

• All students must be released at least one time from their resident district to be eligible to enroll in another public school outside of the District.

• If the enrolling district participates with Schools of Choice, a release may not be required. Check with the enrolling district to verify their requirements.

• Click here to complete a Release Request

• Once a decision is made, a copy of the release will be emailed to the parent/guardian and the requested school district.

Withdrawing from Portage Public Schools?
If your student(s) will no longer be attending Portage Public Schools, please begin the withdrawal process by completing our Portage Public Schools Withdrawal Form. Please also utilize this form if your intent is to homeschool your student(s). Please understand the form simply initiates the process. The enrollment secretary at your school will connect with you regarding what is required to finalize your withdrawal from the district.

After reviewing this information, if you still have questions about transfers, please do not hesitate to contact:

Janet Johnstone
Coordinator of Instructional Services
269-323-5140
jjohnstone@portageps.org